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Activate Your Kilo Journey

Cultivate Connection - Observe Place - Return to Pono

Guided learning grounded in Hawaiian ways of knowing for ʻohana, kumu, and kaiāulu.

Māla Maoli

Learning From ʻĀina

Māla Maoli, meaning native garden spaces, is a place-based learning framework guided by ʻike Hawaiʻi and the living systems of the natural world.

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Through the practice of kilo, learners cultivate meaningful relationships with place by observing seasonal rhythms, ecological relationships, and the many changes that unfold over time. Māla Maoli supports schools, organizations, and communities through curriculum, professional learning, educational consulting, and place-based learning experiences.

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Learn more about the Māla Maoli framework and how it can support your community.

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Selected Work

  • Designed and implemented Māla Maoli native garden learning space and place-based curriculum in partnership with ʻEwa Beach Elementary School with funding from OHE ʻAina Aloha grant

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  • Developed place-based wildfire learning curriculum in partnership with Mālama Learning Center to support student and community understanding following the 2023 Maui wildfires

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  • Facilitated Keiki Kilo observation-based learning series supporting families and educators in developing kilo and environmental awareness practices

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  • Partnered with community organizations, including Hō Mai Ka Pono, to design and facilitate place-based learning experiences centered on time, observation, and relationship with ʻāina

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  • Designed original educational tools, including Nā Manawa o ke Ao flashcards, to support ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and place-based learning in classroom and community settings

Nā Manawa o Ke Ao   Times of Day Flashcards

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Nā Manawa o ke Ao flashcards support observation of daily light and time through kilo (deep observation) and Hawaiian ways of knowing.

The cards help learners connect ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi with lived experience and environmental awareness.​

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Each set includes original design and imagery, with a handmade outer card box reflecting the care and intentionality of Māla Maoli learning. Suitable for home, classroom, and outdoor use. Limited first release. Price includes shipping within Hawaiʻi and the United States. Each Nā Manawa o ke Ao flashcard set includes 22 cards designed to support observation, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, and relationship with daily cycles. The set includes: -Times of day in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi -Cardinal directions -Sun and moon sky objects -Times of day reference diagram -Glossary of key terms -Pronunciation support for ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi These elements work together to help learners build familiarity with time, direction, and environmental awareness through direct observation and practice. Each set is housed in a handmade card box. Each card measures approximately 3.5" x 4.2" and is printed on durable, high-quality cardstock designed for repeated use in classroom and outdoor settings. Cards feature rounded corners for ease of handling and longevity. The flashcards are professionally printed to ensure clarity, color accuracy, and durability while maintaining a tactile, easy-to-use format.

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Contact

If you're interested in learning together, collaborating, or inviting Māla Maoli into your school or community, you're welcome to reach out.

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Email: kumu@kumusamoana.com

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For frequent kilo inspiration, follow my IG account @kumu_samoana

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